A Celebration of Kwanzaa; Kwanzaa--An African American Celebration

These two programs honor the uniquely African-American festival Kwanzaa. From December 26 through January 1, this relatively young holiday (devised in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga as an expression of black culture) celebrates the past and gives hope for the future. In A Celebration of Kwanzaa, film star Dorian Harewood (Roots, I'll Fly Away) provides an overview of Kwanzaa with instructions for observing the holiday. Dressed in beautiful formal African attire, Harewood is inspiring as he explains how to celebrate this joyous occasion with family and friends. The production is lovely, the "set" filled with African art and artifacts, and the traditional costumes reflect the dignity and beauty of Africa. For a basic overview of Kwanzaa, this tape is highly recommended. Aud: J, H, P.Kwanzaa--An African American Celebration--though not as polished--provides much greater detail. Using archival footage, the program shows viewers the political and social climate of the 1960's and why Dr. Karenga developed this cultural celebration. The filmmakers describe in detail Nguzo Saba--the seven principles of the holiday--which include Umoja (unity), Kujichagulia (self-determination), Nia (purpose), and Kuumba (creativity). Storyteller Karima Amin illustrates African folk culture by reciting fables and stories, and throughout the program viewers join African-American families celebrating the ritual of Kwanzaa in their own homes. Some of the taping--done outside and in real homes--is not as sharp as it would have been in a studio set-up, but with the extensive detail it provides, this program is strongly recommended for public libraries. Aud: P. (N. Plympton)